Geography
Just 60 miles (100 km) north of Venezuela, Grenada is the largest of the three small islands that make up the Caribbean nation of the same name. Completing the threesome are Carriacou and Petit Martinique, the most southerly of a long string of coral islands stretching north to neighboring St Vincent. Trinidad and Tobago are Grenada's only Caribbean neighbors to the south.Ecology
Grenada has a varied ecosystem of rainforests, montane thickets, elfin woodlands and lowland dry forests. Mona monkeys swing within wooded areas, and opossums, armadillos, mongoose, pelicans, osprey hawks and rarely seen tree boas roam throughout the island. Among the endangered species are sea turtles and hook-billed kites. Temperatures in Grenada are balmy year round, with daily highs averaging around 80°F (30°C). The rainy season lasts from June to November, and rain falls on average on 22 days a month during this period. Even in the driest months, between January and April, it rains 12 days a month - which accounts for the island's lush vegetation. Grenada has in recent years begun to protect some of its most remarkable natural assets through a system of national parks and protected areas. Ranging from the magnificent Grand Etang Forest Reserve to the tranquil intimacy of La Sagesse estuary, these areas hold considerable attraction for hikers and birdwatchers as well as for those who simply want to become better acquainted with the peerless natural beauty of the island.Scenery
Grand Etang Lake and Forest ReserveThe most popular area in Grenada for hiking and trekking is undoubtedly the rainforest around the Grand Etang Forest Reserve, high up in the mountains of the island's interior. Grand Etang's varied elevations and terrains maintain several different ecological subsystems, culminating in the elfin woodlands high up the slopes of the reserve's central mountains. The focal point of the forest reserve is Grand Etang Lake, which fills the crater of one of the island's extinct volcanos. The rainforest around the lake holds a stupendously rich diversity of flora and fauna. Colourful tropical birds, tiny frogs and lizards, and rare orchids punctuate the dense rainforest vegetation, and the trails meander around the area's stunning waterfalls as well as the azure waters of Grand Etang Lake.
Flora & Fauna
Grand Etang's flora includes towering mahogany and giant gommier trees as well as a multitude of ferns, tropical flowers, and other indigenous plants. The lush vegetation provides shelter for a wide variety of animals, particularly for the island's many species of birds. The broad-winged hawk (known here as the gree-gree), Lesser Antillean swift, Antillean euphonia, purple-throated carib, Antillean crested hummingbird (known as the little doctor bird), and the Lesser Antillean tanager (known as the soursop) are all common sights. In addition, the Grand Etang is populated by plenty of frogs and lizards, as well as playing host to opossums, armadillos, mongooses, and the mona monkey.Hiking
Hikes at Grand Etang range from easy 15-minute jaunts to rigorous expeditions of several hours. The trails are quite good, and the Forest Reserve provides excellent guides (both written and human). The reserve's hikes include:The Morne LaBaye Trail
This brief and easy walk, which takes about fifteen minutes and is suitable for
the whole family, features twelve points of interest intended to acquaint the
visitor with the area's ecology.
The Ridge and Lake Circle Trail
The Lake Circle Trail, which takes about half an hour, winds down to and around
the perimeter of Grand Etang Lake. In addition to allowing outstanding views of
the lake itself, which is so stunning that it really cannot be missed, this
trail wends down through trees bedecked with hibiscus and the island's many
varieties of wild orchids, which grow on the trees for support.
Mt. Qua Qua Trail
One of the central mountains of Grenada's interior range, Mt. Qua Qua rises to a
height of over 2,370 ft (720 m). The trail to and along its ridge passes by
Grand Etang Lake and then rises up to the higher altitudes, cooler temperatures,
and elfin mountain forests of the upper slopes. Hiking the trail takes about an
hour and a half, with frequently steep and sometimes slippery sections that
require some caution. One of the primary attractions of this walk, in addition
to the panoramic prospects available from its occasional clearings, is that it
provides a comprehensive introduction to the varied plant and animal life of
both the rainforest and mountain ecosystems of Grand Etang.
Seven Sisters Trail
So named because it passes by seven of Grand Etang's beautiful mountain
waterfalls, which are nestled in the profuse emerald vegetation of the
rainforest. The trail takes about three hours, even for experienced hikers, but
for those who are up to it the Seven Sisters is well worth the effort. Starting
in an area of banana and nutmeg cultivation, the trail quickly plunges into some
of the most attractive virgin forest on the island. As this hike can be
difficult, the accompaniment of a guide is recommended.
Fedon's Mountain & Concord Falls
Advanced hikers and trekkers should not forego the opportunity to take these two
more substantial hikes, which link to the Mt. Qua Qua Trail in Grand Etang. The
Concord Falls trail branches off from the Mt. Qua Qua Trail after about an hour,
leading down through rainforest canopy, over hilltops and gurgling brooks, to
bring you to the triple cascades of the Concord Falls. The lowest of the three
is a very popular swimming area, camping spot, and tourist attraction, with
modern facilities surrounding its generous swimming area. The upper falls, about
twenty minutes' hike up the river, are definitely worth the short walk, as they
are much less visited and even more beautiful. The 40 ft/12 m cascade plunges
down through the thick vegetation to an inviting pool that offers a much more
tranquil swim than you will find at the lower falls. The third and uppermost of
the three cascades of Concord Falls lies considerably higher up the mountain and
requires about two hours further hiking.
Branching off from the Concord Falls Trail before it reaches the cascades is
the short but demanding path leading up to the cave-like recess of Fedon's Camp.
The camp was the strategic base of Julien Fedon, a Grenadian of French origins
who led a slave uprising against the British in 1765. This well-maintained but
arduous trail takes you deep into the very heart of the Grand Etang rainforest,
through shady groves mahogany, teak, and many of Grenada's other tree species.
Giant ferns and birdlife abound here, including the green-throated carib and the
yellow-billed cuckoo.
A guide is recommended for both the Fedon's Mountain and the Concord Falls
treks.
Levera National Park
The 450-acre Levera National Park holds a strong reputation as Grenada's most
scenic and spectacular coastal area. Its picture-perfect beach is quite popular
on weekends, and its lagoon is one of the most important wildlife habitats on
the island. Consisting of an extensive mangrove swamp, the lagoon is a haven for
an abundance of bird species, including many herons, black-necked stilts, common
snipes, and other waterfowl. Levera's marine areas are equally esteemed, with
outstanding coral reefs and sea grass beds that shelter lobsters and beautiful
reef fishes. The beaches are also a hatchery for sea turtles, which are
protected from May to September. Among the pleasant walks at Levera is a trail
that circles the lagoon.
La Sagesse Nature Centre
This quiet mangrove estuary along the southwestern coast is one of the best
bird-watching locales on Grenada. In addition to the estuary, La Sagesse
includes three fine beaches edged with palm trees, a very good coral reef for
snorkeling, a pristine example of dry thorn scrub and cactus woodland, and a
salt pond. Of course, a good salt pond is the avian equivalent to a stunning
beach, and this is one very inviting salt pond. It attracts an abundance of
different species, including the brown-crested flycatcher, Caribbean coot,
green-backed and little blue heron, and the northern jacuna. La Sagesse also
maintains a small, four-room guesthouse and a restaurant that serves very tasty
lunch fare.
Lake Antoine National Landmark
This shallow crater lake, like Grand Etang, is host to a wide variety of
wildlife. The lake's perimeter trail, a beautiful walk in itself, is another of
Grenada's excellent attractions for birdwatchers. Among the species frequently
sighted are the snail kite, the fulvous whistling-duck, large-billed seed-finch,
gray kingbird, and limpkin.
On September 7, 2004 the Spice Island was devastated by the passage of Hurricane
Ivan. Much of the splendor and beauty offered by our lush green vegetation
and tropical rain forest was destroyed. This was the first time that a hurricane
hit Grenada in 49 years, Nevertheless, nature has taken its course.
Grenada is returning to its former green beauty.
Grenadians aided by regional relief workers, have begun the fervent task of
rebuilding a refined destination. Not only would there be refurbished
facilities but upgraded and enhanced services as well.
St George's
Saint George .This picturesque city, wrapped around the perimeter of the island's finest natural harbour, is perhaps the most appealing capital city in the entire Caribbean. Founded in the early 18th century by the French, St. George's still possesses something of the character of a French town, particularly in the red tile roofs and pastel colors of its traditional architecture. St. George's contains a number of sites worth exploring, and the Board of Tourism (at Burns Point) provides a handy guide for walking tours. Around St. George Botanical GardensSituated just five minutes drive to the southeast of St. George, these pristine, tranquil gardens offer an enchanting introduction to the natural plants and flowers of Grenada and of the Caribbean generally. Bay Gardens
The Bay Gardens, with their winding paths and careful cultivation, offer a fine example of the European impulse to tame and order the paradisical vegetation of the tropics. With over 3,000 species of plants, the Bay Gardens provide a lifetime's introduction to the flora of Grenada--indeed, of the entire Caribbean. The gardens are located behind St. George's, in the suburb of St. Paul's. Carenage
St. George's ideally-formed inner harbour is--as it has been for the last three centuries--the centre of marine activity on the island. The Carenage serves as an anchorage for every sort of vessel imaginable, from small fishing boats and elegant yachts to great white cruise ships. A walk along the encircling Wharf Road allows a lovely view of the harbour and its bounty of colorful ships. St. George's Roman Catholic Cathedral
The Gothic tower of St. George's, though modest enough, is the most visible landmark in the city. Built in 1818, the tower lends Grenada's capital a distinctively European character. House of Parliament
Across Church Street from the cathedral are two of St. George's most venerable buildings. York House, purchased in 1801, houses the House of Representatives, the Senate, and the Supreme Court. Along with the neighbouring Registry, which was built in 1780, York house is a graceful example of early Georgian architecture. Market Square
Bustling, noisy, and colourful, the market is the centre of the capital's civic life, as it has been for the last two hundred years. It is the main site for the purchase and sale of local produce, as well as the focal point for parades, political speeches, and religious activities. More recently, it has become the starting point for minibuses to the outer areas of the island. No visitor to Grenada should miss the Saturday morning market. The Esplanade
Just down Granby Street from Market Square is the Esplanade, which looks out to the west across the Caribbean. A fine locale for an evening promenade. Grenada National Museum
Although the National Museum is not large, it houses a fascinating collection of artifacts from Grenada's cultural history. Its collection extends from ancient times to the present, including material and exhibits on everything from the Caribs to the political events of the 1980s. Sendall Tunnel
This 340-foot tunnel, still the most convenient connection from the Carenage to the Esplanade, was rightly considered a technological triumph when completed the early 18th century. It is named for the island's governor at the time. Fort George
Fort George is situated on an elevated peninsula that commands the harbour entrance, a position that has given the fort enormous strategic importance since the French constructed it in the first decade of the 18th century. Although it continues to serve as the police headquarters, Fort George is most appreciated today for the views that it offers to sightseers. Much of its elaborate colonial structure remains intact, and part of the pleasure of a visit is rambling around among the passages and stairs of the ancient stone fortifications. Fort George still maintains a battery of old cannons, which are used on special occasions to fire off a resounding salute. In the 1980s, Fort George once again played a prominent role in Grenadian history as the site of the assassination of Maurice Bishop, along with several members of his cabinet. In 1983, the fort was bombed by American troops. Fort Frederick
Perched atop Richmond Hill at the center of St. George's, Fort Frederick is a smaller and more recent complement to the imposing Fort George. Built by the British, it was completed in 1791, during the French Revolution.
Around Grenada
Carib's Leap, or Leapers Hill Directly north of the town of Sauteurs is a steep cliff face that descends vertically into the sea for more than 100 feet. It was from the top of the cliff that Grenada's last remaining Carib Indians hurled themselves in 1651, preferring suicide to domination by the French. GouyaveThe drive along Grenada's western coast from St. George's passes through some of the island's most picturesque areas. Along the coast a scattered small fishing villages, set at the entrance of mountain valleys that abound with papaya and breadfruit trees. Gouyave itself is the major site of Fisherman's Birthday celebrations in June. Dougaldston Spice Estate
Located just outside of Gouyave, this historic estate is still the primary producer of the island's spices and the place where they are first processed after harvest. Tours provide a fascinating glimpse of the traditional preparation of spices as well as offering visitors a chance to sample many of the spices and products in their fresh, unprocessed form. Grand Etang Lake and Forest Reserve
The volcanic mountains of Grenada's Central Range rise to over 2000 feet in some places. Some of the mountains contain ancient crater basins, one of which holds a large crater lake, Grand Etang. The lake is over 1700 feet above sea level, and is surrounded with some of the island's most beautiful rainforest. Close to the lake is the visitors' center of the Grand Etang Forest Reserve, Grenada's premier naturalist park. The visitors' center provides visitors with a fascinating introduction to the island's indigenous wildlife, vegetation, forestry, history, and culture. It is also the starting point for many of the walks, hikes, and treks that can be taken through this stunningly beautiful area. Grenville
Grenville, situated about halfway up Grenada's windward eastern shore, is the island's second largest city. Grenville is also home to Grenada's largest nutmeg processing factory, which offers visitors extensive tours of the entire process of nutmeg preparation. Grenville's colorful Saturday market is also worth a visit, as local farmers, fishermen, and merchants gather to sell all sorts of fresh produce, as well as local handicrafts. Lake Antoine National Landmark
About six miles north of Grenville lies Lake Antoine, . La Sagesse Nature Centre
This recently established nature centre holds a wide variety of different attractions, from the prolific birdlife of its salt pond and mangrove estuary to the peaceful isolation of its three fine beaches. La Sagesse also maintains a small guesthouse and restaurant. Levera National Park
The coastal area of this popular park is one of the most dramatically beautiful areas on Grenada, including a superb beach. Levera's marine areas are equally esteemed, with outstanding coral reefs and sea grass beds that shelter lobsters and beautiful reef fishes. Mt. Carmel Waterfall
This is the highest of the island's several lovely waterfalls. It actually consists of two different falls, which together tumble over 70 feet to the crystal clear waters below. Mt. Rich Amerindian Remains
The petroglyphs at this site are unmatched for their detailed depiction of the daily life of Grenada's earliest inhabitants. Numerous artifacts have been recovered from the site, indicating its extended use as an early settlement. River Sallee Boiling Springs
These well-known springs are located in the island's northeast, about one and a half miles north of Lake Antoine. The springs are noted not only for their unique geology, but as a natural wishing well. River Antoine Rum Distillery
No other distillery in the entire Caribbean has been in operation as long as River Antoine, and very few have so carefully maintained traditional methods of rum preparation. Although the distillery is privately owned, it does permit guided tours. Visitors can watch as rum is made in much the same manner that it was in the 18th century, when it fired the throats of the real buccaneers.
